RETURN
Thanks for electing me to serve the 47th
Without the support of family, friends and neighbors, it would have been impossible to win this election.
Together, we posted 600 signs, knocked on 3,333 doors and greeted people in the rain to earn more than 5,400 votes. Most enjoyable was the daily experience of meeting a new neighbor or visiting old friends.
I would like to give special thanks to my family: Neringa, Linda, Bob, Dan, Cathy, Joan, Sue, Adair, Kimi, Jay and Dave. Also, the campaign support and guidance from Andy, Ray, Mark, Mike, John, Brian, Ed, Bill, Jeff, Pete, Mick, Ellis, Jim, Adair, Paul, Tom, Rob, Kathleen, Karen, Omer, Bob, Linda, Ron and Art was greatly appreciated.
To residents, I'd like to hear about your concerns, issues, events or ideas. I will listen, work hard and speak up in Hartford on your behalf.
For all who believed in me and said thanks for running, I thank you.
CHRISTOPHER COUTU
Taftville
Chris Coutu is a patriot and soldier
Chris Coutu is a patriot and a soldier who has my unqualified support for State Representative this November 4th. I am asking that my neighbors in Norwich, Canterbury, Scotland and Sprague vote for Chris Coutu.
After serving his country on active duty for 14 years, Chris is now a Lieutenant in the National Guard. He is active in the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Knights of Columbus and Disabled American Veterans.
In 2005, his devotion to the military inspired him to create American Warrior, a non-profit organization providing assistance to services members. As a recent project, the group fled disabled World War II veterans to Washington D.C. to visit the World War II Memorial.
A young professional and devoted husband himself, Chris is concerned about the fact that many of his college-educated peers are fleeing our state’s high cost of living. He knows that the dubious honor of producing the highest loss rate of this demographic in the country is unacceptable and he supports “Learn Here, Live Here” an organization that assists recent college grads with affordable housing.
While Chris has creative solutions to issues, we continue to ask “Where’s Jack?” Perhaps he’s working with Joe The Plumber.
Linda MacDonald, Baltic, Ct.
At 32, Coutu already an accomplished man
How many 32-year-olds do you know who have single-handedly formed a nonprofit, served their country for 14 years, completed an MBA with 260-plus college credits and served as an alderman for a city?
As motivated as Chris is, we have to remember he never forgets about his community. He’s served on a dozen commissions and volunteered for organizations, including the Board of Zoning Appeals, Administrative Planning for Economic Development Committee, Rehabilitation Committee, Mohegan Park Advisory Committee, Public Works Committee, YMCA, American Legion, VFW, Taftville Lions, Disabled American Veterans and the Taftville Volunteer Fire Department.
These organizations and their members know Chris can be depended upon. Chris is known for his independent mind-set. He speaks up for those who can not. He has passion that very few possess and he will make a difference in Hartford.
CATHY LEVIN
Norwich
Malone is wise to fear Coutu’s threat to seat
Voting for Chris Coutu as the 47th District state representative, you are electing someone who will represent you, your issues and your community, and the district. He’ll fight to change the way Hartford does business. From the floor of the House of Representatives, Chris Coutu will introduce legislation to facilitate business growth, reduce state spending and taxes and support lean government with performance-based requirements.
On Nov. 4, make your voice heard that the tax-and-spend ideology is not acceptable and will not continue. Vote for Christopher Coutu for 47th District state representative.
ANDY R. DEPTA
Norwich
Unlike Malone, Coutu is a man of action
Chris Coutu is exactly what we need to recharge an anemic, dismal General Assembly. Chris Coutu is a proactive, hard-charging, look-you-in-the-eye honest professional who is genuinely concerned about his constituents’ best interests. I’ve seen Chris in action as a Norwich alderman. I’ve looked him in the eye. He’s an impressive man.
My 20-year professional career in the U.S. Navy was built on integrity and dedication to duty. Chris Coutu has these qualities and is not afraid to ruffle some feathers and fight for what is best for the residents of Norwich. We need a man like Chris Coutu representing us in the Connecticut General Assembly. Vote for Chris Coutu for state representative in the 47th district.
JIM NEWMAN
Norwich
Coutu is a leader who motivates many
Growing up I always had high expectations for Christopher Coutu. From his days as a Norwich Tech wrestler he has always been a leader. I remember one story where he was 5 points behind with 30 seconds to go. As one would expect he pulled off an amazing victory to inspire his team.
Now some 15 years later, Chris has completed his MBA, is an Alderman for Norwich and continues to serve his country as an Officer Candidate in the National Guard. During Chris’s tenure in the military he has been a model citizen who not only wears the uniform proudly, but also does so much for his community.
Although I am biased, I am proud that other leaders and organizations have recognized Chris’s commitment to community and country. Over the past few years he has received citations from the Lt. Governor, State House and Senate, University of Hartford, Vietnam Veterans and the American Legions highest award.
These awards have recognized Chris’s commitment to humanity. He truly has proved to me that “one individual” can make a difference. I look forward to my hometown being represented by a leader, who leads by example and has no ties to the Good Ole Boy network!
Dan Pooler
Norwich
Coutu will ease taxes, demand accountability
In this era of politics, we don’t often get the opportunity to vote for someone like Chris Coutu, who is running for state representative in the 47th District.
He’s tired of ever-increasing taxes in Connecticut without accountability on how the money is spent. He wants to facilitate the growth of small businesses to take the burden off residents. A native of Taftville, he understands the unique needs of Sprague and Norwich. As a member of the Sprague Board of Finance, I know firsthand the difficulty of developing a town budget with minimal economic development. If your taxes are out of control, join me and give Chris Coutu your support.
KAREN COLLINS
Sprague
Coutu will bring energy to district
Residents of the 47th District should assert their right for improved and consistent representation by voting for Christopher Coutu on Nov. 4. It is time for new energy to thrive and no excuses as to why representation falls short in the 47th.
Chris Coutu has shown a willingness and determination to make a positive difference in his community. He decided to seek election to the Norwich City Council to help promote open government and encourage public participation. He was elected by voters who were ready for a change in the Norwich political scene.
As a Norwich alderman, he has candidly sought answers to questions that many of Norwich's citizens have had on their minds about city governance, functionality and effectiveness. He believes in an open and meaningful government approach.
Chris Coutu is active in many local and state organizations. He has been recognized for his outstanding consideration toward our veterans via the nonprofit American Warrior organization that he established in 2005, which has brightened the lives of many under his respectful leadership.
District 47 neighborhoods deserve a sincere, energetic voice. Chris Coutu will provide that as our representative. Please vote for Chris Coutu on Nov. 4.
Regional
Coutu talks about campaign financing.
...But the candidates, like Chris Coutu, a 32-year-old financial adviser and one-term alderman from Norwich taking on a 14-year incumbent in the race for state representative there, says the process has already created a more level playing field.
“It lets the candidates focus on the issues,” said Mr. Coutu, a Republican. “In the past, you’d be out begging for money in the final days. Chances are, if you were close, an incumbent could get out multiple mailers in the homestretch and pound home his message while you had run dry. Now you’ve both got your money, and you can focus on the issues and the voters instead of being out begging for money.”
Coutu helped me during my time of need!
Chris Coutu is a caring person, someone willing to take action for others when needed. He is fueled with understanding, enthusiasm and motivation to help.
For the past 18 years, I have been confined to a wheelchair, diagnosed with a degenerative neuromuscular disease called Freidrich’s ataxia. In 2006, I had the opportunity to receive a service dog from East Coast Assistance Dogs to help with my everyday needs. The cost was more than $6,500.
At that time, when Coutu was traveling around the country for the federal government, he established and maintained the Web site briansquest.com.
This Web site has helped me get funds for my assistance dog, changing my life tremendously and helping me regain my independence again in so many ways.
In my time of need, Coutu was there for me. I’ve seen many politicians talk about promises, but they don’t follow through. It’s reassuring to know Chris Coutu is not that kind of guy. He will not make a promise unless he can get it done.
BRIAN L’HOMME
Griswold
Coutu will work hard for all voters
Have you seen the signs, billboards and flags in support of Christopher Coutu for 47th District state representative? As I see it, each one counts as an endorsement of support.
It is nice to see a candidate who knows his job is to represent the people, not special interests, lobbyists or political action committees.
After watching and listening to Chris Coutu on Channel 14, I spent a few minutes looking up a recommended Web site: www.Followthemoney.com. What I found shocked me.
In the past, incumbent state Rep. Jack Malone received the majority of his funding from those who lived in Hartford, Stamford, Bristol and other far-away communities. Even more surprising is the fact they include special interests, lawyers, PACs and lobbyists.
No wonder Mr. Malone missed the big meeting on “Can-The-Plan.” He is too tied up with the good-old-boy network and special interests. I doubt Mr. Malone would have even challenged the judgment if he was unopposed. Now the attorney for the developer is threatening a lawsuit, which will fall in the laps of our tax dollars.
Enough of candidates who represent anyone but the voters.
Regional
Coutu will reset our moral compass
I am writing about moral compass, and that now is a call for new leadership. As both federal and local elections take place this year, people are drawn in by recent events in our country and around the world.
Media in many forms have allowed everyone to hear what is happening, even at the state level. We need to stand firm on the fundamentals that made this country. People came together and voiced their ideas and bills were passed.
There is no discretion about the bills being proposed by lobbyist fed politicians, and the American people are paying for it. Now is the call for moral compass where integrity is measured by what you do in the absence of the public eye, responsibility for one's actions and the common good of the public, forgiveness of past mistakes for self and others and the God-given drive of compassion to push for a better tomorrow.
We need Chris Coutu now to be state representative for the 47th District and declare a revolution to counter what is going on in Washington, D.C., and local civics. We need him to champion the cause and bring about old truths that are timeless.
Regional
Coutu is young mind we need in Hartford
Jack Malone is done. It’s time for the young and strong-willed who actually want to make a difference. Coutu is working hard for his campaign.
Most politicians think because they have served for so long that voters are going to vote for them again and again.
Malone needs to realize it’s time for a change. Change is good, especially when there’s a man like Christopher Coutu willing to go that extra mile for the people. Malone has done enough of doing nothing. Vote for Christopher Coutu.
C.J. KONDRATOWICZ
Norwich
Coutu made sure vets were honored
I, and 99 comrades, enjoyed one-on-one support from a network established by Chris, meeting the lieutenant governor and a homecoming that included a police escort and 150 people cheering in the center of Norwich. I’ve never felt so blessed and honored.
Chris also became a friend, stopping by to check on Mary and me. His visits and conversations were always cherished. Although my wife has passed on, we appreciated his extraordinary effort to support us. Mary’s not here to vote, but she is here in spirit to support Chris.
PHIL WORSKI
Norwich
Christopher Coutu will lead us into the future!
Recently, I attended an award ceremony that honored University of Hartford alumni. The Anchor Award is presented to graduates who have achieved amazing accomplishments upon graduation. I was very impressed with the caliber of recipients which included a high level prosecutor and the inventor of the ANCI code for computers.
This year a new award called the Humanitarian Service Award was added to the list of distinguished honors. Christopher Coutu was chosen as the recipient of this award. After an introduction from the president of the university, Mr. Coutu took the podium. He shared the details of his work for the veterans and his future plans for them. Mr. Coutu demonstrated his ongoing commitment to a cause that truly makes a difference in many peoples' lives.
As the evening came to an end, Mr. Coutu was approached by other award recipients and congratulated for his efforts. Others inquired how they could help with his dream of sending veterans to Washington D.C. to see the memorial erected in their honor.
Mr. Coutu is a young man of great passion and character. He is motivated by the needs of people rather than by personal gain. I truly believe Mr. Coutu has what it takes to be the State Representative for the 47th district!
Tracy Worski
Coutu True leadership motivates others.
When most politicians are pointing their fingers and attacking their opponents, my brother has been working hard, helping our community and serving our country.
Over the past year I have witnessed my brother complete 6 months of Army Officer Candidate schools, advise hundreds of people about their finances, send 200 WWII and Korean Veterans to Washington DC, serve on numerous committees and as an Alderman for Norwich. His family, friends and supporters continue to be amazed by his work ethic and ability to get things done.
While we are impressed I have to mention other organizations that have recognized Chris. Over the past few years he has received Citations from the Lt. Governor, Edith Prague & Andrea Stillman, the Air Force’s Outstanding Volunteer and Humanitarian Medals, American Legions Americanism Award and the University of Hartford Alumni’s highest honor in the Humanitarian Award.
My brother has inspired many to make a difference and has been recognized. He is motivating people of all ages to make a difference and do more. What a refreshing concept!
Kimi Coutu
Time for CHANGE!
The time has come for CHANGE. People of the 47th District are sick of old politics, special interests and family connections in the government. This year we have two very different candidates for the seat of the 47th.
An incumbent, Jack Malone, who has been in this seat for 14 years. Those, who live and work in this area, know well all the family and special interest ties between Jack Malone and some of his colleges, city and state officials. Even Jack’s 14 year position with SCADD is an ethical conflict and his tenure on the Appropriations Committee. If you want some of the same old political tricks, keep Jack Malone in his seat.
I want somebody new. And not just anybody… I have and will continue to support Christopher Coutu in this election. I know for sure that there are no special ties and hidden agendas there. Those, who have know Chris for a long time and those that just met him, know that he is a sincere man with a desire to make a difference and change in the way this government operates. Christopher has been driving, walking and running in the 47th district and meeting people, introducing himself for months. He has been active with numerous organizations for over 10 years. Jack just decided to put up signs a week ago.
Chris does not have hidden agendas, family and colleagues who are within local government, special interests and businesses. When elected, he will definitely shake up the government. And that’s exactly what we need. Join me and Vote COUTU to represent you on the Nov 4th!
Mike Warren
Coutu will be a great state representative
I know the budget problems occurred on Jack's and his cronies' watch. We have them to thank for our enormous deficit our state now faces. Their tax-and spend policies have discouraged new businesses and job creation. I know it is time for change in Hartford.
Chris Coutu is an exemplary individual who I have known all his life. I'm proud to see he has matured into an honest straight-shooter who is a patriot and humanitarian. He would, I believe, be an outstanding State Representative. From his position on the Norwich City Council, Chris has supported lower taxes and fought for his belief in a government that is efficient and responsive to its citizens.
On Nov 4, I can, without reservation, ask my friends and neighbors to vote for Chris Coutu. I can personally guarantee he will not let us down.
Robert J. Macdonald
BALTIC